Stylist raises cash for cancer charity at modelling contest

Stylist raises cash for cancer charity at modelling contest

David Lee

06:09PM, Sunday 10 April 2016

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A hairdresser from Windsor traded the salon for the catwalk last weekend as she took part in the final of a prestigious modelling contest.

Stephanie Birch, 23, who works as a stylist at Ritzy’s hairdressers in St Leonard's Road, saw off competition from more than 2,000 applicants as she was selected as a finalist in the Editorial category of Top Model UK 2016.

Set in the lavish surroundings of the Hilton London Metropole Hotel, finalists had three opportunities to strut their stuff down the catwalk as judges watched on.

The final walk gave contestants the opportunity to wear their own outfit.

While many contestants picked similar costumes, Stephanie caught the eye in a daring blue swimsuit.

She said: “I thought a lot of the girls would come with the wings that Victoria’s Secret models wear and I was right, as about 15 contestants turned up in them.

“I just wanted to have something that no-one else would have.”

Despite missing out on the overall winning prize, Stephanie won the award for highest fundraiser in her category after she raised £1,379 for Children with Cancer UK.

After collecting her award, Stephanie paid tribute to everyone who helped her raise the money.

“It’s a great feeling as the charity really means a lot to me,” she said.